Domain Registration Authority and Delegation of Duties
Learn about the partnership between Kingswood Digital LLC and OpenSRS, and how we work together to secure and manage your domain assets.
This article serves as a formal reference for clients of Kingswood Digital LLC regarding the management, registration, and compliance requirements of their domain assets.
1. The Registrar-Reseller Relationship
Kingswood Digital LLC provides domain name registration services as an authorized reseller of OpenSRS, a primary platform owned by Tucows Inc. * The Registrar of Record: Tucows Inc. (OpenSRS) is the ICANN-accredited registrar. They maintain the direct technical link to the central registries (such as Verisign for .com).
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The Service Provider: Kingswood Digital LLC acts as your management interface, technical consultant, and billing agent. We handle the configuration and maintenance of your domain environment so you do not have to navigate registrar-level complexities.
2. ICANN Compliance & Registrant Requirements
As a domain owner (the "Registrant"), you are subject to policies set by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Kingswood Digital LLC facilitates compliance with these policies:
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Whois Data Reminder Policy (WDRP): At least once per year, you will receive an automated email from OpenSRS/Tucows requesting that you review and update your contact information. Kingswood Digital LLC requires that you keep this data current to prevent domain suspension.
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Registrant Verification: For new registrations or contact changes, ICANN requires email verification within 15 days. Failure to click the verification link in the email sent by the registrar will result in the domain being placed on "ClientHold" (suspended).
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Transfer Policy: Domains are subject to a 60-day "Transfer Lock" following any new registration or change to the Registrant's name, organization, or email address.
3. Delegation of Duties
| Feature/Service | Kingswood Digital LLC Responsibility | OpenSRS / Tucows Responsibility |
| Account Management | Primary support, strategic advice, and concierge DNS changes. | Backend registry communication and API infrastructure. |
| Billing & Renewals | Invoicing the client and ensuring the domain remains in good financial standing. | Executing the legal renewal with the central registry. |
| DNS Infrastructure | Configuring A, MX, CNAME, and TXT records for website and email functionality. | Providing the authoritative name servers that broadcast records globally. |
| Data Privacy | Implementation of WHOIS Privacy (Privacy+), masking your personal data from public view. | Acting as the legal proxy for the masked data. |
| Dispute Resolution | Assisting clients in navigating UDRP (Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy) issues. | Enforcing legal or ICANN-mandated domain locks or transfers. |
4. Recommended Resources & Compliance Links
For legal and regulatory oversight, please refer to the following official resources:
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ICANN Registrant Rights and Responsibilities: A formal document outlining your legal rights as a domain holder.
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Tucows/OpenSRS Master Services Agreement: The underlying legal terms that govern the registration of your domain.
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Kingswood Digital LLC Support Portal: For all technical requests, DNS updates, or to request your EPP/Auth-Code for transfers.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kingswood Digital LLC the legal owner of my domain?
No. Kingswood Digital LLC acts as the custodian. The "Registrant" listed in the WHOIS record is the legal owner. We ensure that you maintain full control and ownership of your intellectual property.
What happens if I miss a renewal notice?
Kingswood Digital LLC sends multiple notifications prior to expiration. If a domain expires, it enters a "Renewal Grace Period." If not renewed, it may enter a "Redemption Period," where the registry charges significantly higher fees to recover the domain. We strongly recommend enabling auto-renewal through our billing department.
Why does my domain say it is "Locked"?
For your security, Kingswood Digital LLC applies a "Registrar Lock" to all managed domains. This prevents unauthorized or "slamming" transfers. We will only remove this lock upon your explicit, verified request.
Legal Note: This document is for informational purposes. All services provided by Kingswood Digital LLC are subject to the terms outlined in your signed Master Service Agreement (MSA) and the ICANN Registrar Accreditation Agreement.